Vol. XXIII No. 5 February/March, … · 2017-04-06 · Corner of Richmond and Washington, 1912 Note: Motorcycle, Horse & wagon, 2 cars, bicycle, & wheelbarrow in one picture (PRHA

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Vol. XXIII No. 5 February/March, 2005 $1.50

Corner of Richmond and Washington, 1912 Note: Motorcycle, Horse & wagon, 2 cars, bicycle, & wheelbarrow in one picture (PRHA Archive Photo 0139-DC, Restored by Thomas Mercer-Hursh).

A band concert in front of the bank about 1910. Note Santa Fe Market in the background. (PRHA Archive Photo 0235-DC, Restored by Thomas Mercer-Hursh)

This Point…..in time

By Mid Dornan

2005 is the starting of a busy year. Our Richmond Centennial is on August 7 and committees are already busy preparing the format, budget, details, etc. Richmond began in the Point. It is hoped the festivities can end the year-long activities in the Point. We are anxious to interview any one that lived in Richmond or the Point in the 20’s - 30’s or before. Or, you can write or telephone us to verbalize your stories. Your suggestions for making this a special event are welcome. It is hoped the Bank Memorial Plaque will be finalized this month. Plan to come to our Annual Point History meeting in May! AND, the Point Richmond History Association is truly blessed to have Thomas Mercer-Hursh enhancing our newsletter. It is amazing how his enhanced pictures are clearer than the originals. We ALL THANK YOU.

From the President 1

Members 2

Editor’s Notes 3

A-Mid Trivia 4

Church News 6

Women’s Westside 11

Masquers Review, Macbeth 12

Archive Photo Gallery 14

History, Bank of Richmond 16

Items of Interest, 1911 20

Cards, Letters and Emails 23

Deaths 26

Birthdays/Over 90 Club 27

Calendar 28

Contents of this Issue

William L. Thompson, MD Memories of Pt Richmond Residents

18

FROM THE PRESIDENT

“Up Washington Avenue” (0019-DC from our Don Church photo collection, restored and enhanced by Thomas Mercer-Hursh)

This Point…..in time 2

Thank you members for your membership renewal:

Dorie Collard Guy Audrey C. Edwards Spiro Cakos Alyce Williamson Family Wilma M. Winter Jerry & Theresa Daniel Family Rita MacDonald Hansen Bob Larsen Dixie L. Mello Don & Carole Woodrow Thomas L. Kenny Royce Ong* Stella Anellini Giovannini Family Virginia Cherniak Edward J. McGarvey* Jenny Pearson Fillius Bob & Marie Peckham Family Steven Peckham Family** Michael Peckham Family** Dugger Shore Family** Simeon J. Burtner Patrice Verhines And a warm welcome to the following new

members: Judy Son Shine Hall*** Patti & Stephen Kowalski Family* Eunice Ruth Hursh**** Marion Kent Judy & Vince Kafka Frank Kenny Darian Peckham** Bernadette Ayers & Family** Valerie Gortemiller and Family** Drs. Amy Jackson & Peter Fisk** Gretchen Deutsch** Michael & Betty Ann Lambert** Debbie Miller *Special Supporters Membership **Gift Membership from Marie & Bob Peckham ***Gift Membership from Old Ed ****Gift Membership from Thomas Mercer-Hursh

Thank You!

Santa Fe Market and

Point Richmond Market

For selling “THIS POINT…..in time”

Museum Hours: Thursday 11:30 am to 2:00 pm

Saturday 11:30 am to 2:00 pm Thanks to the Volunteers who open and close

our history museum on Thursday and Saturday: Betty Dornan (Director) Bruce and Ann Bartram Pat Pearson Mid Dornan Bonnie Jo Cullison Dody Perry Anita Christiansen Sonja Darling Margaret Morkowski Alyce Williamson

3 This Point…..in time

Gary Shows (510-235-1336)

The Cover The Bank of Richmond Building on the corner of West Richmond and Washington Avenues, perfectly restored by Mark Howe. Photo by Gary Shows, beautifully enhanced by Thomas Mercer-Hursh.

Here is your February/March issue of “This Point…..in time”. It is our third issue with the Thomas Mercer-Hursh influence. Thomas has added color and excitement to our newsletter, I am grateful for his substantial efforts. You can thank him for the new church logos in this issue.

Thank you to Mark Howe for making this issue by restoring the star building of the Point Richmond downtown area. It is such a beautiful building in such a wonderful setting. Even during its worst era I thought someone would come along and save it, and Mr. Howe did just that.

Thanks to all the regular contributors, with our new look it is even more important that you are on time. I will try to remind you sooner of your deadlines. Your work is appreciated by all.

The deadline for the April/May issue will be March 18, 2005.

The December/January issue assembly crew

was: Jerry Cerkanowicz Gary Shows Mary Highfill Pam Wilson Mid Dornan Margaret Morkowski Sonja Darling Marcelina Smith Pat Pearson

Thank You! Special Supporters!

History Makers

Sherri Mertle

Doug & Rosemary Corbin

Mohamed & Sheba Warith

Linda & Robert Drake

Kathe Kiehn

Corporate Sponsor Timeworks Inc. Clock Company

Stephen Kawalski Family

History Preservers:

Royce Ong

Edward J. McGarvey

Gilda Markarian

Kevin, Renee & Griffin Knee

Jean & John Knox

EDITOR’S NOTES


Mid Dornan (510-234-5334)

Question:Who was the first U.S. President to be photographed while in office? And which President was the first to have his Inauguration televised?

ANSWER at end of Trivia ***

February is to Winter as Wednesday is to the work week. February is a short month, just about right to pay the Christmas bills, send a valentine and oil those tools for spring.

*** Little did we students at Norfolk High School

(Nebraska) know that fellow student, Johnny Carson, would become a legend. He shared his magic at my house with a California friend and one summer washed the towns insulators with my Brother, Bill, as they earned money to go to college. Carson has been generous to his "growing-up " home in Norfolk, Nebraska, funding a Cancer Center for the town and a football field for the high school. He was always a gentleman on his show and never earned laughs at the expense of a guest. He had class and his style of humor is missed as is he.

*** Florence and Jim Wilson entertained guests

from Canada in January. ***

While Christmas is past, some memories of the decorations still linger. The homes along Western Drive that included that of Rod and Bonnie Satre and the restored Abbott house on Cottage and Santa Fe are just two. It is time to consider Bob Peckham’s project that outlines the tops of all the buildings in the business triangle. Think about it! If you didn’t have an opportunity to attend the Messiah or other activities at the Methodist Church during the holidays, you missed special decorations there.

***

Sonja Darling has spent three weeks in North Dakota with her mother. Sonja can appreciate the type of cold we complain about here after the below zero temperatures in S.D.

*** Do you like color? Spend too much GREEN,

you’ll soon be in the RED, and when the bills arrive you’ll be feeling BLUE.

*** Just in time for Valentine’s Day here’s some

delicious news: Scientists have discovered that chocolate has more heart-protecting, cholesterol-busting compounds than broccoli does! Chocolate ups your supply of the natural antidepressants serotonin and dopamine. And, that’s not all. chocolate contains phenyl ethylamine, a mood-boosting hormone our brains also make. Now studies show just sniffing chocolate may raise your spirits. (Who can just sniff chocolate?). Head for the chocolate and ......more good news next month!

*** (From Point CounterPoint, May 1976)

9th grader Ivar Elle can claim, among his many talents, the fact he can bake a super lemon meringue pie. (please note Anne)

*** With Chinese New Year upon us did you

know the red envelope (Li See) with “lucky money” is an essential item given by bosses to their staff and by married people to children and single young adults. Orientals say “:Gung Hay Fat Choy” (May you prosper) to each other before the Li See changes hand.

*** Who won the Camp Fire Bicentennial Quilt

made in the 80s by Sonja Darlings’ O KI ZU Camp Fire Girls and raffled as a club fund raiser?

*** The Rosie the Riveter/World War II Home

Front National Historic Park is losing a valuable

A-MID TRIVIA


Superintendent, Judy Hart, who is retiring in February. Judy has laid the foundation for the park, Richmond’s natural heritage. The National Park Service is expected to name her replacement soon.

*** A few generations ago people were cursing

the telephone for destroying the fine art of letter writing. Now we’re losing the voice contact to email.

*** Bruce Beyeart is to be commended for his

tireless efforts to complete the Bay Trails (Trails for Richmond Action Committee - TRAC). Bruce is the chair, David Dolberg and Nancy Strauch are Vice Chairs. .Thank you all for making the Bay Area a better place.

*** Martin McNair, our history plaques

installation expert, has been named to the powerful Contra Costa Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFC). Martin is retired with a b a c k g r o u n d o f d e v e l o p m e n t a n d environmentalism The Mayor of Martinez says, “He’s very well thought of, a man of intelligence and a good thinker.”.

*** The Save the Richmond Plunge Trust and

Richmond Friends of Recreation met in January to summarize their continuing activities to restore the Plunge. Grants and funds for the Plunge amount to $1,113,092 with millions more needed.

*** Bob and Ellie Strauss, recently located in

Cloverdale, are taking a 100 day world cruise beginning in March.

*** COOKING TIP: A roast with the bone in

will cook faster than a boneless roast - the bone carries the heat to the inside of the roast quicker.

*** Jean Reynolds will be honored on February

10, at the Richmond Yacht Club as “Sweetheart of 2005” for her many contributions to the

community. A fund raiser for the Methodist Church, Bob Peckham was their first “Sweetheart” in 1998.

*** On February 15, 1842, a private mail service

in New York city introduced the first adhesive postage stamps.

*** As this goes to press, well-known Fay

Hawkins of Crest Avenue, is at Kaiser Hospital after a fall in his home. He is wished a short stay and to be home by the time this comes off the press!

*** While we are anticipating Valentine’s Day,

know that Easter is only a short month away - Sunday, March 27.

*** HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY

*** Answer: President James Polk became the

first U.S. president to be photographed in 1849. Harry S. Truman was the first to have his Inaugural televised.


By Dee Rosier 510-232-1387

Welcome to 2005. 2004 was a memorable

year, we shared happiness and sadness, and some events were eventful and some not so. Perhaps 2005 will not pass as quickly. New Year’s Day Mass was celebrated with the baptism of a new infant.

Returning a bit to 2004. Father O’Rourke conducted a four-day Advent retreat focused on the personal and religious issues pertaining to senior adults. It was well attended by at least 30-35 people daily.

Midnight Mass was not held at California time but instead at 9:00 PM which was Eastern Standard Time. It was standing room only as the chamber ensemble “El Mundo” delighted all in attendance with a Spanish baroque Christmas Eve Mass. Those that attended the Methodist Jazz experienced a slight musical change. A reception followed in the church hall. Bob and Marie Peckham were unable to attend because they took the redeye to colder-than California, New York to spend Christmas with Darian.

The Giving Tree was an overwhelming

success. All requested gifts were delivered to STAND, an organization that helps battered women.

Father O’Rourke was summoned for jury duty the week of Christmas, but escaped and did not have to serve. He was luckier than I, who wasted a day at the County Building only to be dismissed at 3:00 PM.

We may be the smallest parish in the diocese, but the most generous, since we raised $1100.00 for victims of the Tsunami. Our obligation to the needy went to Catholic Relief Services. The Souper Kitchen was also the recipient of $2,347.00 last year. Many parish members volunteer their time there on Mondays.

The term of many on the Parish Council are about to expire. We are looking for replacements. If you are interested please call Father O’Rourke. Meetings are held on the first Tuesday of each month at 7:30 PM in the parish hall. Father is also seeking professionals in building, repair and maintenance fields to form a Building and Maintenance Committee. With the new roof, soon to be a reality, after the rainy season, professional advises would be helpful. Generally bids are on the Cadillac-side, but when we do not have deep resources, it must be looked into with the reality of our own situation. Thanks to our deceased benefactor, Pina Barbieri, who left $10,000.00 to the roof fund. The stained glass windows on the south side of the church need a protective coating to preserve them from weather elements. Father also urges parishioners to join the ranks of those who assist in liturgies (also known as, “Working for God”). A training session is planned so that you can feel comfortable with the responsibilities. Don’t know where all these volunteers are going to come from, but maybe you can be one.

There have been some common sense safety issues dealt with inside of the church, which will reduce falls and fire damage.

Each Sunday as Mass begins; Luciano Forner rings the church bells. He now has an apprentice/

CHURCH NEWS


helper in 3-year old Petey Crowley and another standing in the wings anxious to do the same.

Church organist, Betty Conception, has decided to retire and will soon move to the Philippines. We wish her well and thank her for the years of music she provided.

Jack and Edwina Murray wasted no time and the day after Christmas left on a cruise to Mexico and warmer weather.

Brenda McKinley spent Thanksgiving in Oklahoma and Christmas in New Zealand as the guest of Mary Forbes’ daughters.

We all enjoyed seeing Mary Shipler attend Mass during the Holidays and continue to remember her in our daily prayers.

Congratulations to Norma Reiter who recently joined the ranks of becoming a Grandparent. Her daughter, Anne Marie, presented Norma with a 5-lb, 3-oz baby girl named Lilly.

Condolences to Al Alcaraz in the recent death of his son, Gilbert.

Condolences to the Lanning family in the death of our longest-lived parishioner, Jenny Lanning. Jenny, Missal in hand, walked with determination to attend daily Mass. Our talks

always took place on her return trip. Jenny was an anchor for all we hold to be important to the life of a community.

Aside from all his daily duties, Father O’Rourke hosted a pasta dinner for Parishioners on Saturday after Mass. Side dishes and dessert were provided by Parishioners as 50 of us gathered in the church hall for delicious food and warm companionship. During the day, as the sun delighted us for a while, he found time to do some planting in his already colorful garden. When we experienced rain recently, Father had many ants as unwanted guests. I share with you his formula for ridding them: Fill a spray bottle with 60% water, 30% Windex and 10% ammonia. Spray away the ants and wipe clean.

Happy 5th birthday to my grandson, Griffin. Ama will always love you.

My wish to all for 2005 May you have enough happiness to make you sweet,

Enough treats to make you strong, Enough sorrows to keep you human and Enough hope to make you happy. See you in church!

Snow storm of 1913 (0022-DC Don Church Collection Photo Restored by Thomas Mercer-Hursh)


by Jean Reynolds

510-235-2988 [email protected]

Handel’s Messiah concert on December 5

featured The Joyful Noise Choir, soloists Liz Engan, Mark Mueller, Linda Andrew-Marshall, Dan Damon, Gill Stanfield and Jean Reynolds directed by Eileen Johnson. Jane Carnall accompanied our rehearsals, and Ann Calloway played the reed organ during the performance. The Orchestra included Brooke Aird, Violin, Sharon Williams, Violin, Candy Sanderson, Viola, Nancy Bien, Cello, and Jab on Trumpet. It was electric to sing with those clear voices from our wider community: Liz Engan, Mark Mueller, Sandra Wilson, Sallie DeWitt, Will Larson, Roger Goetsch, Brian Steen, and Ann and Gene Langille added a palpable enthusiasm and depth to our sound.

We marked the tenth Jazz Christmas Eve service this year. Highlights include Lavinia Karl, harpist; Luke Karl on violin; the Angel Choir; the Christmas story from the Gospel of Luke read by Liam Thompson; and solos by Paula Helene, Dave Tattershall, Sheila Alix, and Bethany Reynolds.

Lillian Karl sang the first verse of “Silent Night.” The Band, with Kurt Ribak, acoustic bass, Jerry Stefan, drums, Joel Weir, guitar, and Dan Damon at the keyboard, conveyed the Christmas message through their music-to-be-remembered.

The church sponsored its third annual holiday bake sale on December 18 at Interactive Resources in Point Richmond. Yum!

We revived a tradition this year and went Christmas caroling on December 19 after a chili dinner in Friendship Hall. More than twenty singers sang at businesses on Washington Ave., Park Place, and homes in some Point Richmond neighborhoods. Our voices and legs wore out before our spirits did.

The United Methodist Women celebrated the season with a potluck at Helen Valentine’s home on December 16. Members brought gifts for the Contra Costa County Rescue Mission. After a delicious dinner preceded by homemade candy and followed by Helen’s Christmas cookies, we shared stories about when we first came to the Point Methodist Church and why we stayed.

We Remember: Jack Harold Elle, 11-30-18 to 12-12-04. Mr. Elle moved to Pt. Richmond from Oregon after WWII. He attended the United Methodist Church and over the years served in many ways: Sunday School teacher, Ad Board Chair, Financial Secretary, Liturgist, groundskeeper, advocate for the book of Ecclesiastes, and so on. He was a loving father, grandfather, and friend to many. We celebrated his life on January 8. Heartwarming stories poured forth at the service and revealed a life that touched many. Jack often talked about investments and worried some about having enough money for retirement. It seems that he invested well in relationships with his family and others, and left a legacy of love. We will miss his presence in our community.

Virginia Cherniak passed away on January 18, 2005. Virginia was a devoted director of the Joyful Noise Choir from the early/mid 1990’s: she was a magnet who attracted interested singers to the choir. We sang to see that smile. She was also


one of the founding members of the Masquers’ theater group. We will celebrate her life on April 30 at the church. More details next issue.

On the Calendar: February 10, Thursday, Sweetheart Dinner to

honor Jean Reynolds: 6:00 p.m. at the Point San Pablo Yacht Club, 700 W. Cutting Boulevard. Tickets for $35 cover the cost of dinner, live music, humor (watch Jean squirm) and memories.

March 20, Sunday, Palm Sunday Feast 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. after 11:00 worship. Join us for ham, scalloped potatoes, other delicious food and good company! Do you want to help or donate food? Call Claudia LeGuÈ, 215-1813.

March 27, Easter Sunday. Early worship (sunrise over Our Lady of Mercy) in the garden, 8:00 a.m.; Breakfast, 9:00 a.m.; Sunday School, 10:00 a.m.; Traditional Worship, 11:00 a.m.; Easter Egg Hunt, after 12 noon. The sturdy among us stay for the whole morning, because it is hard to choose an event to leave out!

Last year we celebrated a Seder meal with members from Our Lady of Mercy during Holy Week. Call the church (236-0527) in March if you would like to attend this year’s celebration.

Point Methodist Church History Mid Dornan

Church history is rich with contributions of

women. One church group in the 1920’s was the SOCIAL LEAGUE of the First Methodist Episcopal Church whose history is reflected in their minutes printed below and taken from the canvas covered, red leather cornered notebook which cost $1.15. The minutes are printed as written. This is the 69th installment.

Sept.6 - 1927 The Social League was called to order by the President in the church parlors.

Mrs. Brothers and Mrs. Burdick presiding as hostesses for the afternoon. After repeating the Lords Prayer in unison, 19 members responded to the roll call. The League was very happy to welcome Mrs. J.P. Smith gain and also to have Mrs. Jack Meece enroll as a member of the League. It was moved and seconded that the precedes from the luncheon, the amount of $30.50, be given to the church for current expenses. ELECTION OF OFFICERS Mrs. Burdick unanimously elected second Vice-President. Mrs.Doney, Treasurer Mrs. Danner, Secretary. A recess was declared by the President for the payment of dues. Mrs. J. P. Smith 1.00 Mrs. Oehne .60 Mrs. Stender .60 Mrs. Dicely .60 Mrs. Danner .60 Mrs. Coner .60 Mrs. Redman .60 Mrs. Scofield .60 Mrs. Dingle .60 Mrs. Schmidt .60 Mrs. Griffin .60 Mrs. Osborn .60 7.60 Balance $27.20 Luncheon 30.50 Dues 7.60 Collection 1.30 $66.60 30.50 ck for luncheon to church $36.10 Balance No further business, meeting adjourned. Bess Osborn, Secy The books of the Social League have been carefully audited and found to be OK. Mrs. Wilda D. Schmidt Grace Judy Griffin .


Christian Science Church and Reading

Room Karen Lea Aasand

Since opening their doors a year ago the

Christian Science church in Point Richmond has been seeing a lot of visitors in the Reading Room. It’s been encouraging and supportive to the mem-bers of the congregation to know that the Point has embraced them and made them feel so at home. It seems that this new addition to town has added another bright spot where the community can visit, hang out, read or study without an obligation to buy anything or learn anything, although that is a welcome activity. The Reading Room keeps cur-rent copies of the award winning daily interna-tional newspaper, The Christian Science Monitor, on hand for reading or purchasing, amongst many other reading materials.

The church services have had a number of newcomers as well.

The Sunday School Superintendent, Karen Lea Aasand is encouraging the community to come visit and see what goes on.

Children up to the age of 20 can be enrolled in the Sunday School were they learn about God and their inherent relationship to him. And they can ask questions and talk about how God can help them everyday. Newcomers are invited to drop by Sunday morning a few minutes before 10:00 am to meet the Sunday School staff. Kids don’t have to have an adult with them to enroll or attend.

Come and visit and then afterwards enjoy brunch at one of the lovely restaurants in town.

Everything starts at 10:00 am and goes till 11.00 am. Everyone is invited to enjoy the Word of God. Everybody will be made to feel at home. Join us!

The Christian Science religion follows Christ Jesus and the Bible. And understands that we are all children of God. Why not get the whole family

in on this powerful fact? The church’s latest activity has been to invite

those seeking answers to the tough challenges and problems of today to attend discussion groups. The group discusses that healing and wholeness can come through understanding God and man’s relationship to Him/Her. There was such an inter-est last fall that the talks are being resumed this year.

Discussion Group Dates: The first will be Friday, Feb. 4th from noon

until 1:30 pm. The second will be Thursday, Feb. 24th from

7:00 pm till 8:30 pm. Regularly Scheduled Meetings and Hours Sun. Services and Sunday Sun. School 10:00

am—11:00 am Wed. evenings 7:30 pm—8:30 pm Testimony

Meetings Reading Room Tues.—Sat. various hours Sun.

before and after church.

Winery Workers at Winehaven (PRHA Archive Photo 0332BB-DC, Restored by Thomas Mercer-Hursh).


WWIC ACTIVITIES Alyce Williamson 510-234-4219

The hustle and bustle of the holidays is over and the New Year is well under way. I hope that everyone enjoyed a fun filled and joyous Christmas and Happy New Year. It is now time to return to a normal pace of living which I am sure most of us will be happy to do so.

December 7, 2004 The Women's Westside Improvement Club

gathered at the Pt. Richmond Methodist Church on December 7, 2004 for our annual Christmas luncheon. There were 34 members and guests present. The church had decorated the Hall with a beautiful Christmas tree and garlands adorned the walls. Anita Christiansen and Mary Highfill decorated the tables in a lovely Christmas theme. Thanks to Anita, Mary and the Church for the festive decor. We enjoyed a lunch of salmon or chicken catered by Marsha Tommasi of the Inner Cook.

Guests Betsy Raymond, Jilda Markarian, Joyce Watson, Judy Kafka and Rose Bozzo were introduced. Guests Betsy Raymond, Judy Kafka and Jilda Markarian became new members. Welcome aboard ladies.

We usually do not have a speaker at the Christmas luncheon but today was an exception as it was the only time that Professor Richard Candida-Smith of the University of California Berkeley's Oral History Program could visit with his video and presentation on the Rosie The Riveter WW 11 National Home Front Park. Professor Candida-Smith showed a DVD which highlighted interviews of a woman from Texas, a woman from Oregon and a teenager from New Mexico. Each one gave their history of coming to Richmond during World War 11 to work in the shipyard and their experiences in learning the importance of teamwork in the producing of the many ships that emerged from Richmond's Shipyards. We thank Professor Candia-Smith for the interesting program. He will be interviewing a few of our members to gather information on their

war-time experiences attending USO events here in Richmond.

After the presentation Anna Schwartz and her trusty accordion lead us in the singing of Christmas Carols. Birthday wishes were extended to Muriel Bluhon Nov.11th, Susan Brooks Dec. 1st, Pat Pearson Dec. 17th, Dorothy Hernandez Dec. 19th , Mary Hightail Jan 5th, Altha Humphrey Jan 9th and Sonja Darling Jan 31st. Happy Birthday ladies.

We observed a moment of silence in memory of Pearl Harbor December 7, 1941.

The delightful day was ended with an inspirational thought by Anita Christiansen. As we departed we wished one another Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

The next meeting will be February 1, 2005. Will look forward to hearing about your Christmas celebrations. See you there. Bring a guest and or a new member.

Two men at Winehaven (PRHA Archive Photo 0333B-DC,

Restored by Thomas Mercer-Hursh.)


"The Farndale Avenue Housing Estate Townswomens' Guild Dramatic Society's Pro-duction of Macbeth" is a mouthful, but the title does establish the play's intent. As the play-within-a-play suggests, all characters are embroiled in playing their parts well, even to the extent of hand-ing out another set of programs. Each actress in the performance plays a multitude of characters in the Macbeth concert, so it is all very confusing indeed.

The play is a cacophony of slapstick humour (à la Monty Python) and a symphony of mis-matched events that predictably involve mishaps in lighting, scene changes, speech prompts, subplots and more. The confusion was intended, surely. On opening night, our audience was lively and the cast apparently appreciated our joining in singing the national anthem (p.s. that's God Save The Queen).

Immediately the audience gets swamped in a bewildering array of simulated English and Scots accents (which take some getting used to). Mac-beth's witches are the only characters who are not muddling because they are easily identified by their witches' uniforms. Alas, I, like Mr. Peach, don't really remember Macbeth that well and should have resolved to go home and read the book. Nice touch, that.

Each character is true to type. Mrs. Beale's performance is spectacular. The middle-aged, bored dame at the piano (played by Gwynneth) did a great job. Mrs. Reece (played by Jo Lusk) is a small-town lady of self-importance and gratuitous enthusiasm, but she is gracious as well as lovely. Thelma (played by Deidre Green) is cast in a male part, though Thelma herself is quite prissy and full of her own dramatic importance, and yes, her cos-tumes are quite amusing. Felicity (played by Anne Collins) [iIhgir—if I have got it right] has some powerful and other equally impotent moments. She is the only character for whom I feel real warmth: she has enthusiasm, energy, dance, a true bursting

of personality, a beautiful trim figure, a true de-light! Kate (played by Jan Brown) [iIhgir], adds real hilarity to the situation by reinforcing the in-tent of the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act). However, Dawn (played by Diana Godet) [I have got it right, she told me], performs a perfect rendi-tion of how the functioning-visually-impaired deal with losing their glasses. Mysteriously, she trans-forms this into other random acts of madness in-cluding the stabbing of nearby persons (would the ADA approve, do you suppose?). Minnie (played by Nancy Benson) [iIhgir] does some great things with Scottish Highland dancing, and mixes naivety and nonsense quite well. Mr. Plummer, a.k.a. the producer, played by Dave Wilderson, is a misfit, perhaps intentionally. Mr. Plummer seems like a sweet and kind drama professor pleasantly over-seeing the dramatic choices of his cast over the top of his glasses. Unbeknownst to the audience, Mr. Plummer transforms his personality from a non-

MACBETH at the Masquers

A Review by Theresa de Valence


entity in the first act to a dramatic and meaningful presence by the end of the second.

The most captivating performance shall be awarded to both Henry and Mr. Peach.

Henry is the Stage Manager who is called upon to replace a title rôle; he is drafted because he knows the lines as well as anyone. Henry, played by George Doerr, approaches this transformation in a cartoonish way. He is very effective prancing circumspectly into his new character. As Henry becomes more integrated with his character, his performance becomes suitably more dramatic.

Mr. Peach, played by Norman Macleod, is a perfect satire of a dissipated, middle-aged theatre reviewer whose effective rating is at a one or two star level (i.e. an "all star" low level), who is most likely an alcoholic, who is only marginally con-scious of the play, who rouses himself to notice events throughout the play, but who brings himself to deliver a review (to beat all reviews) well above the expectations of the audience and the cast.

The play is predictably what one expects it to be. If you like slapstick, it will be a hilarious addi-tion to your repertoire of plays. Even if you don't like slapstick, you might still enjoy it.

MASQUERS turns 50! The playhouse celebrates its 50th anniversary

season with 5 plays in a total of 121 performances. Masquers is a group of dedicated theatre fanatics. Members donate more than 8,000 hours yearly to the Playhouse. None of this includes the countless hours of rehearsal and performance time by volun-teer actors and production crews.

This season shows are Macbeth, Proof (a whodunit play about sex, love and betrayal), Ruth-less! (about a girl who is born to entertain), En-chanted April (a romantic comedy of odd women on a holiday in Italy), and Dear World (a wise old woman saving the world from greedy oil barons).

As an added bonus for historians, each pro-gram includes pictures and notes over a ten year period of Masquers’ history. The Macbeth program covers 1955-1965 — fascinating! Season tickets are available! Get the entire listing!

VALENTINE’S DAY

Who remembers when Valentine’s Day at school meant someone, often the teacher, provided a large, fancy decorated box to hold valentines. Children made red construction-paper-type heart valentines with flowers and drawings with their own sayings They didn’t have gummed hearts so flour-and-water-paste was used. If you had a few pennies, you could buy postcard weight valentines with sayings like, “Won’t you be my Valentine?” or “I Love You”. You made a special one for the teacher. Your valentines were dropped in the pretty valentine box and on Valentine’s Day, a chosen monitor (a monitor is a kind of teacher's trustee) would pull the valentines from the box and read off the names. You walked up and got them. If a boy got one from a girl all the boys would tease him after school and if a girl received one from a boy, the girls pointed at you and giggled. The sayings were not always complimentary and often the valentine wasn’t signed. Especially the not-so-nice ones The most popular persons, usually girls, received the most valentines which seemed to be the goal and those with few would put them away quickly so as not to call attention to the fact they had few. Today Valentine’s Day at school is more sensitive as everyone that brings valentines must give to everyone in the class. Those days are memories, dear hearts, as today we run up a tab with the florist, candy or perfume shop.

md

Masquers 50th Anniversary Gala will be held Sunday April 24th 2005. Mark the date! For more information call (510) 232-3888 or visit www.masquers.org.


ARCHIVE PHOTO GALLERY Historical Photo Restorations by Thomas Mercer-Hursh, Ph.D.

The original bank was on the second floor

and The Record, the first Richmond Paper, was published in the

basement, but was completely covered with mud when the

sewer became plugged & flooded the

basement

(PRHA Archive Photo 0118-DC,

Restored by Thomas Mercer-Hursh)

During construction to lower the bank to sidewalk level. (PRHA Archive Photo 0115-DC, Restored by Thomas Mercer-Hursh)


About 1915 (PRHA Archive Photo 0255-CC, Restored by Thomas Mercer-Hursh.)

Postcard from 1910 (PRHA Photo Archive 0062-00, restored by Thomas Mercer-Hursh)


BANK OF RICHMOND BUILDING

The Bank of Richmond was organized in 1902. In that same year work was begun on a large, prestigious building of yellow glazed brick at the corner of Washington and West Richmond Avenues. It had a well designed façade and a staircase leading from the sidewalk to the first floor. There were offices upstairs, and shops along West Richmond Avenue.

In 1910 the building was remodeled, an addition was built behind the bank on Washington Avenue for the storage of books and papers, the floor of the bank was lowered to street level, eliminating the need for the elegant stairs, and the façade was changed to look much as it does now. In the 1920’s the pointed roof on the round bay in front was removed.

The Bank of Richmond was located here until the early 1920’s when it became the location of the First Richmond Branch Mercantile Trust Company, and the in the late 1920’s to the mid 1930’s, the American Trust Company. By the early 1940’s it was a billiard hall, at one time called “Bank Club Billiards”.

Over the years many different businesses have occupied the storefronts in the bank building along West Richmond Avenue, including the People’s Water Company (our original version of EBMUD), McWhorter’s Grocery. Pulse Brother’s “Groceteria”, W.B. Jenkins (tailor), Wood & Wood Notions, a beauty shop, and later a barber shop.

Above the bank were offices which in 1902 housed the early phone exchange. Around 1912 the Coroner, Dr. Abbott, was located here, and in 1914 Dr. Abbott opened the Emergency Hospital over the Bank when he closed the hospital on West

Richmond. In the early 1920’s the offices were converted to lodgings and at one time these called the Bank Hotel, and later the Hartynyk Hotel.

In the mid 1950’s Bob and Sherry Hartynyk bought the building, and made the upper floor their home. They moved their variety store from the old Lang Drug Company building on Washington Avenue to the street level of this building, known as Sherry and Bob’s. Mrs. (Sherry) Hartynyk, who had been a buyer for Lord and Taylor, began a boutique in the rear of the store. Mr. (Bob) Hartynyk died in 1979 and Mrs. (Sherry) Hartynyk continued to run the business with the help of her children.

Age and neglect had taken its toll on the old building when Mark Howe bought it from Sherry Hartynyk in the year 2000. Mr. Howe, being aware of the potential beauty and power of the centrally located building spared no expense in bringing about its restoration.

Mark’s restoration project took many months but it was clear to anyone watching that the slow restoration was due to an astonishing degree of attention to quality and detail. From the replaced pointed roof with flagpole to the beautiful brickwork to the heavy wooden front doors finished off with a rich striking paint job, it is certain a job well done.

Ed. This article mostly from the book “This

Point in time, an historic view of Point Richmond” by Donna Roselius. Comments and finishing was added by Gary Shows


Inside the Bank of Richmond in about 1905. (PRHA Archive Photo 0138-DC, restored by Thomas Mercer-Hursh.)

Richmond City Hall and the Bank of

Richmond,circa 1915.

(PRHA Archive Photo 0139-DC,

Restored by Thomas Mercer-Hursh).


Part Three There were many other fine families in the

region. I cannot begin to recall them all. On Idaho Street there was the Woods family, the Millers, the Halls and others. In the cove above Washington School were the Arnolds. J.P. Arnold was the first police chief of Point Richmond. His son, Howard, was a classmate of mine in school. Above them in the cove were the Spierschs who ran the pioneer plumbing business in the Point. To the east, on a prominent point overlooking the Washington School and an arm of the bay, the Murrays built a home. I believe that this was Jack Murray who became Point Richmond's first fire chief. To old timers this is still called Murray's Point. Later this home was taken over by the Hanney family.

In the regions further west were many other old pioneer families. Mr. and Mrs. Handcock arrived very early and built a small home on Terrace Avenue to the west of the

Dunlaps. Mr. Handcock had been a contractor but he was away much of the time working on the Hetch-Hetchy project in the Sierra. The concrete buttress that supports Terrace Avenue as it heads down toward Washington Avenue was built by him. Mrs. Handcock was alone so much that she became a part time baby sitter for me and my brother. They eventually left and moved to Los Angeles. I have heard that the old buggy in which they arrived in Richmond is in the Richmond Museum but have not verified that fact.

The Dunlaps were a remarkable pair and a more honest and sincere couple never existed. Paul Dunlap was from the Placerville area, Diamond Springs to be exact. He was an excellent carpenter and worked with my father. His wife, Lucetta Dunlap, was one of the Woods and Boerman families that settled in the Stege area long before there was a Richmond. She had been an early post mistress in Point Richmond. They were a

William L. Thompson, M.D. Memories of Pioneer Point

Richmond Residents Dr. Thompson was born in Point Richmond on February 17, 1909. He grew up in the Point,

attended Washington Elementary School and graduated from Richmond High School in 1926, attended U.C. Berkeley and in 1929 at the age of 20 was admitted to the UCSF Medical

School. He completed his medical school in 1933 and interned at Highland Hospital before joining the Civilian Conservation Corp. as a contract surgeon for the Army. Dr. Thompson practiced medicine for 39 years in Richmond, we are lucky to be the recipient of his written

memories of his life in Point Richmond. This is a reprint of his gift to all of us. We will reprint his entire series. Thank you Dr. Thompson! Enjoy!


deeply religious pair in a quiet sort of way. They ran the little Point Baptist Church that I attended as a child. There never was a pastor in those early days and most of the congregation was children. In later years divinity students from the seminary would spend a little time there. One of these whose name I can't remember eventually went as a missionary to the Philippines and, with his family, were killed by the Japanese during the war. Mr. Dunlap was so devoutly religious that he would not read a Sunday newspaper. They would not cook a meal on Sunday but prepared it the day before and ate it cold. He would not work on Sunday but in case of an emergency at the Standard Oil Company he would help but all the money earned in that way was given to the church. They were a wonderful pair but had no children. Mrs. Dunlap was quite active in local social affairs.

Bob Dornan arrived in Point Richmond in its very early years, coming from Ireland. After a short time he opened his own business selling feed, grain, coal, hay, etc. We raised chickens and rabbits and bought our supplies from Bob at the Richmond Supply Company. As a child I recall him climbing the stairs with huge weights of coal or feed on his back. About the time I was in high school my father built a small mountain cabin on Forest Service land on the south fork of the American River. He bought some used lumber from the Standard Oil Company and hired Bob to haul it up for us and I rode along to show him the way. He had an old truck that sputtered along but be made it all right.

Shortly after Dornan began his business he was joined by a Mr. Whitesides who lived

on upper Washington Avenue. They were together for several years, then Bob bought Whitesides out and Whitesides went to work for the Standard Oil Company as a carpenter with my father. Later he quit there and went into the grocery business, finally building the fine market building at the corner of Richmond and Washington Avenues which still is a busy market. Bob Dornan's wife, Trannie, first went to work for him in the office and later they were married and were together very many years with a daughter Betty and a son Robert who was most active in the Boy Scouts. They also had a daughter, Dorothy, who died in her teens.

A.F. Brooks began his career as a whaler with the Pacific Whale Oil Company. I have heard that at one time he captained whalers then became an executive. The Whale Oil Company had a few small storage tanks and a short wharf where the Standard Oil Company now has its salt water station. The Standard bought out the company’s property and took Brooks on in an administrative capacity eventually becoming superintendent of the refinery. At first he lived in a rather large house near the top of Washington Avenue. As an important executive, soon the lesser ones built around him and upper Washington Avenue became the elite part of Point Richmond. After a time, Brooks built a larger home over on the East Richmond hills which started the subdivision now known as Mira Vista. Just as surely all the junior executives followed him over to the same area.

To be continued…..

Dr. Thompson’s Son in law Gab Togner wrote a touching eulogy to Dr. Thompson at his memorial in 1998, you can read it at http://www.alkos.com/prha/thompson.html.


This fact diary is, a book of headlines and interesting events in Early Point Richmond was compiled by Don Church and is one of the items left for us by Allan Smith.

Items of Interest Point Richmond, 1911 1-3 Note the new City and County officers installed this date. John Moyle closing out shoe store stock. Has been nine years a the Point. Lillian Parks weds Joseph Gibbs on January 1st. Schooner Agnes Jones, Capt. Duke Stairley in Cutting Canal with load of sand for artificial stone works. 1-4 Large fund in City Treasury $20,643.27. Mrs. Albert Mason, nee Katie Breen in S.F. hospital for appendicitis. Dr. W. S. Lucas moves offices from Wunderlich Bldg.on Part Place to his new home on Washington Avenue. J.Cullen of Dixon down with a fine load of ducks and geese for sale, sales not too good acct of the holidays. Salaries of Justice of Peace cut to $40 per month at Stege and S.P. Constable from $80 to $75. 1-6 New Count hospital at Martinez ready for occupancy. Steam roller at work on Richmond avenue where street has been shaped with rock. C.E. Neidecker moves into house vacated by Dr. Lucas at corner of Cottage and Martina. John Kenney plans tournament at Alleys on Washington avenue for 12 weeks. 1-7 Dr. Martin held up by 3 ladies on Washington Avenue 1-11 Santa Fe train wreck near Fresno, 2 killed, Engr and fireman. 1-12 Hervert Repsold arrested (the perfumed burglar) Margaret Raab his fiancée. 1-13 The Raabs will stand by Repsold. 1-20 Red Bluff will see Richmond sign being built by Sperisch Bros. 1-22 Standard Oil Co. teamster living in stable has smallpox. Tent put up on hill and he is isolated with male nurse. 1-24 Phil Barry fills Vacancy in Police Dept. 1-25 Council will limit liquor licenses. 1-25 Black Diamond wants new name. H.C. Cutting has put out fine booklet “Land Values” 1-26 Str. Queen burns off Pt. Reyes. L.A. Brick is moving bricks by barges instead of wagons. 1-27 Work starts on new P.O. (the Arnold Block) Still there 1-29 Milnes-Leader and Independent battle over City printing. 2-1 S.F. awarded 1915 Expo by Congress Tuesday, 1-28-11


2-4 John Nicholl to build resort on Pt. Potrero (pipe dream) 2-5 Sperisch Bros. to erect huge sign on barge in Canal. 2-7 Key route to extend to Richmond 2-8 SOCo Acid Plant burns to the ground. 1/2 million dollar loss. 2-11 Beautiful lawns around new library at 4th and Nevin. Lang Drug to move soon with Chas. Neidecker in charge. 2-12 Masonic brothers scandal in Marysville-Richmond man killed. Riordan Block to cost $20,000 (Colonial Hotel). 2-15 Council will limit saloons. 54 now; want 25. As licenses expire or they go out of business, they will not be renewed. 2-16 Wyatt's Grocery store gives 5% discount for cash; 3% on all bills paid each pay day to counter the trading stamp craze. 2-17 City Jail is full of hobos, drunks, vagrants, etc. 2-18 Richmond is the star of the county says Martinez Gazette. 2-19 Enormous sign nearly ready. 2-23 Herbert Repsold gets 15 years at San Quentin. 2-25 Dog poisoner busy. They die like sheep on the east side. 2-28 Water Co. angered at rate reduction set by council. Citizens protest council stopping free garbage. 3-2 Abe Ruef, former political boss of SF will go to SQ for 14 years. Black Diamond to hold election to change its name to Pittsburg. 3-3 Drunk shoots at Policeman Walker. Richmond wild west. 3-7 Fire destroys Pillow Bros warehouse. Loss $10,000. Horses saved. 3-9 Women's Improvement Club to improve Janice Park (named after daughter of the Club President when they bought the site. 3-11 Wreck on the Belt line near Winehaven. 3-14 Moyle bldg being moved north for constr. Of Colonial Hotel. It was later occupied by Casey's news stand. Old Voinea Tailor bldg. moved to Std Ave next to French Laundry. Moyle bldg. moved to the Voinea site. 3-21 Mr. & Mrs. A.P. Tyler sell rooming house over Bank of Richmond to W.L. Brown former grocerman here. 3-23 Otto Ludwig buys cor. Rich and Park Place. 3-24 Flying machine at Pullman Sunday. Excursions to run from SF and Bay Area to see it. Large crowd expected. 3-26 West side to experience boom p-1. Note improvement going on. Nicholl Ave. being improved around Mrs. Little’s property with block walls.


LOOKING BACK From Richmond Daily News July 16, 1914 J. Stiefvater, grocer on Richmond Avenue, has purchased a large Overland delivery automobile. This was rendered necessary by the growth of his business and it is one of the finest to be seen anywhere. - July 30, 1914 Funeral held for John Nicholl who was 91 years old. - July 14, 1915 The Richmond Supply Company were granted to do repairing work on their store at Point Richmond to the extent of $200.

February 19th Valentine Making Contest

Point Richmond Community Center Noon to Four

Children of all ages are welcome!

March 26th Easter Egg Coloring and Basket Making Contest

Point Richmond Community Center Noon to Four

Children of all ages are welcome


Dear Gary, I’m writing to let you know that my sister, Inez Pestana, died yesterday, January 11, in Modesto. She has had diabetes for years and finally had kidney failure and congestive heart failure. She has been living in a nursing home for several years. Her husband, Myron Pestana, is in poor health and still lives at their farm in Patterson near Modesto. One of my sons has been helping him and two of my daughters have been with Inez for a couple of weeks. All my children loved their “Auntie Inie”. We’ll all miss her so much. I’m glad you printed her letter in the December/January issue of TPIT. The Winehaven story and pictures were wonderful. I’m glad she was able to see that issue!

Sincerely Audrey Edwards

Kahului, HI Many folks now and in the future will appreciate Inez’s memories of her time in Point Richmond.

Gary Dear Gary, Congratulations on your beautiful December-January, 2005 issue. The restored photos were superb. The San Pablo Historical Society keeps a file of your newsletters. We all reside in the original Rancho San Pablo and have that in common. My mother, Lusia Bernardi, grew up in Point Richmond, and my father, Henry Soito, got his first job at the Bank of Richmond, on the corner of Washington and Richmond Avenues in 1917.

Best wishes for a Happy New Year, Anna Soito Gaumer

President San Pablo Historical Society

I forwarded your letter to PRHA member Thomas Mercer-Hursh, who is really responsible for the

wonderful improvements. Gary

Thomas, Catching up on mail since returning from Key West and the Everglades, I was delighted to discover the new Winehaven issue of TPIT. It is a collectors' item! Thanks very much for all that you are doing for posterity. I was delighted that you made such good use of the materials which I loaned to you. Please return when convenient. Thanks.

Bruce Beyaert Phone/Fax 510-235-2835

Email: [email protected] Point Richmond

Dear Pam, In 1943 as a Missouri boy of age 17 and just graduating from school, I applied fro a job a a Henry J. Kaiser shipyard at Point Richmond, and was hired. I had to work days because I was under 18 and too young to be aou at night. I lived in an apartment above a café near one of the tunnels. At age 18 I registered for the draft at the Contra Costa court house and from there I went into the U.S. Navy. I believe I heard where the shipyard where I worked as a drillers helper employed 10,000 people. There were 3 ship yards as I recall. They all worked 24/7 to build the Liberty ships. I watched several of them slide down the ways into

CARDS, LETTERS & E-MAIL


the water to be finished off elsewhere. The relocating to your city was my first trip out of Missouri and I was very excited to say the least. My time in Point Richmond ran out and the Navy was my next home for 4 years. To this day I have a fond likeness for your city, I remember some of it well, so not so well. Best Regards and Merry Christmas

E.W. Huse Houston, TX

Thanks for writing Mr. Huse, did you know that the shipyards are part of a new national park?

Gary

Dear Pam, My wife Carole and I would like to renew our membership in the PRHA. We moved to the Point on Idaho Street in 2001 from Geneva, NY where, right now, it is dropping toward a below-zero reading. The story about the Allyn family in this month’s issue was most interesting. Hank Allyn shows up around here from time to time, no doubt to keep an eye on his rentals at the bottom of the street. Hank knows his tenants and Dee Rosier and Steve Wyrick but the rest of us are probably strangers to him. Idaho Street has seen a lot of change since he left and lots more coming seems a lot for this short street.

With best regards, Don and Carole Woodrow

Point Richmond The Point Richmond History Association, I am enclosing my renewal fees for the coming year. I have so enjoyed the newsletter over

the past few months; brings back so many memories of my childhood. I lived there as a child from 1943 to 1955, at 483 W. Richmond Ave. My grandmother, Hazel McCreagh was on of the original “Rosie Riveters” working in the Richmond shipyards during the war. I missed be born in Richmond as my father was stationed in Texas in the Army in 1943. My parents came back to the Point when I was just a few weeks old. So, I consider myself a native anyway. Both my brothers were born in Richmond. I remember as a child running wild over the hills of the Point, looking for old Indian arrowheads which seem to be in abundance, Keller Beach, Santa Fe Market (for penny candy), The Plunge and spending 15 cents to see a movie a the old theater. I loved Harry and Winnie Palmateer who owned the Drug Store in those days. Winnie had been a childhood best friend to my Grandmother. They had no children and had “adopted” me as their own. I spent lots of time with Uncle Harry at his store. One of my best friend's fathers managed the restaurant at the Hotel Mac and I spent lots of time there. They lived in one of the hotel rooms. What a pleasure to visit the museum a few months ago and find my Mother’s senior yearbook from Richmond High and lot’s of names I recognized from many years ago. So many wonderful memories of a happy childhood. Thank you for helping me to remember them with “This Point…..in time”.

Sincerely, Dora Jean Collard Guy

Sparks, NV


Dear Pam: Enclosed is a check for $30.00. Use $12.00 to renew my subscription, keep the rest as a donation. I continue to enjoy “This Point” newsletter. I grew up with the Smiths, the Starks, the Bells, Stu Saunders and my three brothers Gus, Peter, Andrew and two sisters Helen and Rebecca, new everyone in town they are all deceased. I left in 1943 after graduating from Richmond High School. I am surprised that you couldn’t find some information in the literature that I sent Gary Shows in 1992. I sent him a box of Richmond High School Shields from the years 1931 or 1932 through Jan 1943. I also sent him old pictures and articles from Andres house when he died in 1991. Also when they had the old timers get togethers at the “Our Lady of Mercy” Catholic Church, I left pictures of the families graduating classes at Washington Grammar School.

Anyhow, they are gone now. I enjoy coming to Point Richmond to see Rose Buggy, who is one of our closest friends.

Take Care, Spiro Cakos

Phoenix

Spiro, I am sorry you feel that your things are “gone” they are now being enjoyed by many

people. The “Shields” are available in our little museum and the photos are part of our photo

archives that we are in the process of being scanned and made available to everyone via the

internet. Every item that you left is being well cared for and will be available to future

generations. If we have not sufficiently thanked I apologize and now say,,

THANK YOU SPIRO CAKOS!.................gary

Inside the bank after

it was lowered to

sidewalk level.

PRHA

Archive Photo

0171-DC, Restored by

Thomas Mercer-

Hursh.


DEATHS…..

Virginia Cherniak in New Jersey on January 18, 2005. She was a Richmond High Graduate and lived in El Cerrito before moving to the Point. Virginia was a Life Member of the Masquers, Past President of Washington PTA, Past President of the Women’s Westside Improvement Club,member of the Point Richmond History Association, member of Point Methodist Church where she served as Choir Director for many years and in 2002 was honored as “Sweetheart of the Year”. She is survived by her daughters, Susan Hyde, New Jersey; Stephanie Eakle, Canada and three grandchildren, Nicole Hyde, Zoe and Ben Eakle. Her husband, Basil, preceded her in death. Memorial services will be held for Virginia on Saturday, April 30, 2005, 2:00 p.m. at the Point Methodist Church, 201 Martina Street, Point Richmond.

Joanne Lanning on January 17, 2005, aged 90. Born June 1, 1914, she entered into rest at her Point Richmond home. Joanne was the longest-standing member of Our Lady of Mercy Catholic Church in the Point. For many years she was a volunteer at Highland Elementary school where her daughter, Linda, taught. She is survived by her daughters, Linda Marshall and Patricia Bonderud. A Mass of Christian Burial was held at the church.

Jack Elle on December 12, 2004,age 86. A son of immigrant Norwegian parents, Jack moved to the Point Richmond from is home state of Oregon after serving in World War II. He worked first as a teacher and then as a psychologist for the Richmond Unified School District. He was a loyal member of the Point United Methodist Church where he had taught Sunday School and served on the Administrative Board. Remembered as a caring father, Jack is survived by five children: Roger, Roxanne Ingvar, Ivar and Karilu and five grandchildren, Noelle, Holly, Natalie, Brian (BJ) and Quinn. He is also survived by a brother, Marvin and a sisters Bette Lou. Memorial services honoring his life were held at the Point Methodist Church on Saturday, January 8, 2005.

Barbara Olesen, co-owner of the Barricia Vineyard north of Sonoma, passed away at her home on the vineyard on Friday, December 10, 2004. Barbara and Judge Patricia Herron, Ret., longtime residents of Point Richmond, acquired the vineyard in 1978. The land was originally part of the Vallejo Spanish Land grant and contained some of the Valley's finest old Zinfandel vines. Using Barricia Zinfandel grapes, various Sonoma vintners produced numerous gold and silver medal wines over the years.

Darlene Mary Byers, passed away on November 29, 2004 with courage and grace at Summit Hospital in Oakland, she was 79. Born in Iowa she was the youngest of three brothers and two sisters. Darlene moved to San Diego, at the age of 18 and in 1949 married Jim Byers, where they made their first home in Richmond, CA. In 1952 they moved to Orinda, where they resided until 1974 when they moved to their dream house on the water in Point Richmond. Darlene is survived by her loving husband, James Sidney Byers, and daughters, Mrs. Karen Byers Mays of San Diego and Judy Byers Salvestrin of Petaluma and six grandchildren.


Exclusive - Over 90 Club

BIRTHDAYS

Mark M. Gebhart Sarah Wilson Hortense Gnaga McGee Mary Shur Steven Mertle Fred Beesley Billy Bob Karl

Doug Busby Chris Rotting Bessie Squires Walter MacMillan Barnaby Edwards Connie Healy Helen Valentine

Marcos Rotting Arlene Rodini Landow Howe Rowene MacMillan Dody Perry Ethel MacMillan Kim Ward

Velma Healy Anne Brussok-Roth Adele Bruno Waymire Lupe Padilla Lopez Vince Kafka Jared Kowalski BOY SCOUTS OF AMERICA

February

An impressive list! And it grows each month! Ruth Wood Mullen (98) Anna Schwarz (92) Romilda Burress Jay Vincent (91) Jean Moyle Spiersch Rena Cairo Gonsalves (94) Anne Hanzlik (94) Lupe Padilla Lopez Louise Hammond (91)

Al McGee (92) Reva Ward Maxine Stoddard Mark Gebhart Jim Kenny Alice Helseth (94) Goldie Mobley (91) Dulcie Johnson (91) Anita Brougham Dorothy Rudnick (91) Ethel Schumacher (94) Laura Kurtz (90)

Lloyd Farley (90) Lee Christian (90) Otto Barni (90) Avis Blanchette (91)

An even more exclusive club! Our 100 YEAR CLUB:

Bonnie Kirkman (102) Have we missed anyone?

Sheba Warith Karolyn Macdiarmid Dale Hawkins Carol Paasch JoAnn Bray Claire E. Crowson Carol Darling Jim Morrison GIRL SCOUTS Dolly Frosini

Carl Paasch Reba Downs Rich Schuldt Phyllis Feyder Kathe Kiehn Janice Jones Jean Knox Marie Wilson-Dietz Lavinia Karl Avis Blanchette

CAMP FIRE GIRLS Brian Richardson Ben Bray Susan Berman Mary Valenzano Delphina Franco Tawney Rachel Elizabeth Palfini Myron Pestana Elizabeth Buhler Lorna Huffstetter

Lucile Cottingham Meyer George LeRoy Willims Isobel Folson Edwin Loux

March


GOLDEN STATE MODEL RAILROAD MUSEUM AND EAST BAY MODEL ENGINEERS SOCIETY

900 Dornan Drive, Miller/Knox Regional Park. Interested in Museum Membership? Museum is open to the public Saturdays and Sundays and July 4th and Labor Day noon to 5 pm. Business Meetings and Workshop on Fridays 7-10 PM. 510-234-4884.

MASQUERS PLAYHOUSE Quality productions, Fridays and Saturdays at 8 pm, Sunday Matinees at 2:30 pm. Tickets are $13, cash check or credit card. Reservations and program, 510-232-4031.

Dinner at the Hotel Mac and the play on Thursday, for only $28. Call 510-232-4031 for reservations.

POINT RICHMOND ASSOCIATON OF MOTHERS (PRAM) Mondays at 7 PM, Methodist Church, 201 Martina Street. Information on meetings call 273-9959.

POINT RICHMOND BUSINESS ASSOCIATION Meets 2nd Wednesday each month, Hotel Mac Banquet Room, 12-1:30, Lunch Reservations $11. Contact: Paula Aasmus, O.D. 510-235-5228.

POINT RICHMOND COMMUNITY CENTER/FIELD HOUSE & PLUNGE Info: 233-6881

POINT RICHMOND HISTORY ASSOCIATION Museum at 139½ Washington Avenue, open Thursday’s and Saturday’s, 11:30 to 2:00 The deadline for the April/May, 2005 issue of TPIT is Friday March 18, 2005.

POINT RICHMOND NEIGHBORHOOD COUNCIL Meets last Wednesday each month, Pt Richmond Community Center; 7:30 P.M Contact: Don Woodrow, President, 234-3107.

RICHMOND ENVIRONMENTAL DEFENSE FUND The REDF is a non-profit corporation dedicated to ensuring that future development here is well-planned, sensitive to the environment and in compliance with city, state and federal laws. Citizen support is encouraged. Further information, call 510-215-6100. General membership public meetings are held monthly. Details of current meetings are available by calling 510-232-0405.

WASHINGTON SCHOOL Contact: Anita Vasarhely, Secretary 510-232-1436.

WOMEN’S WESTSIDE IMPROVEMENT CLUB Contact: Margaret Morkowski , President. 510-234-4219

CALENDAR

To update or add your organization or event to our calendar, please contact Gary Shows, 510-235-1336, or email him, [email protected], or send your request to 229 Golden Gate Avenue, Point Richmond, CA 94801

I would like to join the P.R.H.A. Name: Address: Phone: Type of membership (check one): Single $18.00 Senior (65+) 12.00 Family 25.00 History Preserver 50.00 Corporate Sponsor 75.00 History Maker 100.00 Membership in the Point Richmond History Association includes a one year subscription to “THIS POINT...in time” newsletter (six issues). Please make your check payable to the Point Richmond History Association and mail it to:

Pam Wilson 521 Western Drive

Point Richmond, CA 94801 If you would like to have birthdays noted in the newsletter, please include names and months.

Articles for each issue are due on or before the deadline printed in the calendar section.

Please mail articles and items of interest to: Gary Shows

229 Golden Gate Avenue Point Richmond, CA 94801

or fax 510-965-0335

or email: [email protected]

“This Point...in time” is a publication of the Point Richmond History Association, a

non-profit organization at: 139 ½ Washington Avenue Point Richmond, CA 94801

All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part of any article or image without written permission of

the Point Richmond History Association is prohibited.

Board of Directors: Mid Dornan, President

Elizabeth McDonald, Vice President Jerry Cerkanowicz, 2nd Vice President

Patricia Pearson, Secretary Sonja Darling, Treasurer

Mary Highfill, Corresponding Secretary Pam WIlson, Membership

Gary Shows, Newsletter Editor Betty Dornan, Museum Coordinator

Bonnie Jo Cullison, Archives Main Contributors to this Issue: Gary Shows Editor Mid Dornan Various Articles Don Church/Allan Smith Historic Photos Jerry Cerkanowicz Proof/Information Pam Wilson Membership Info Thomas Mercer-Hursh, Ph.D. Design/Photos/ Printing Jean Reynolds Article Dee Rosier Article Alyce Williamson Article William Thompson, M.D. Article Theresa de Valence Article Karen Lea Aasand Article Donna Roselius Article Mark Howe Information

Phone Numbers Mid Dornan 510-234-5334 Gary Shows 510-235-1336 Fax 510-965-0335

Visit our website

PointRichmondHistory.org Thanks ALKO office supply for hosting our site

Richmond Museum of History 510-235-7387 Red Oak Victory Information 510-235-7387 Rosie the Riveter Park 510-232-5050

Documents

Vol. XXIII No. 5 February/March, … · 2017-04-06 · Corner of Richmond and Washington, 1912 Note: Motorcycle, Horse & wagon, 2 cars, bicycle, & wheelbarrow in one picture (PRHA